I love this island! There is a certain atmosphere there that made me feel really comfortable despite the crowds. I wish I could have stayed a night on the island but it was fully booked everywhere. It was a public holiday.

My experience at the temple was immensely enhanced by the unexpected appearance of a Japanese couple, all decked in traditional Japanese costumes, who held their wedding there. I could not believe my luck!

I do think that it is obligatory to climb up Mt Misen. It was tough and I got something of a near death experience thanks to my unfit body but I thought the view from the top was gorgeous. There is a ropeway though, but I only used it to get down.